Leveraging Augmented Reality Apps in Modern Business

While AR and VR are used together in most cases, there are some clear differences between the two. The following infographic discusses the differences between the two technologies. 

Impact of Augmented Reality Apps in Different Industries 

Watching augmented reality apps grow from a mere video game to now being integrated in several industries goes to show its benefits. AR has already been incorporated in retail, entertainment, real estate and retail.  

AR has already allowed several businesses tackle challenges and improve their revenue streams. Following are some of the industries that are already using AR for their operations. 

Healthcare 

Augmented reality in the healthcare industry is already creating new opportunities. Following are some of the ways AR has improved the healthcare industry. 

• Augmented Diagnosis 

Often, during the diagnosis process, a patient might not be able to describe their symptoms in a proper manner. Furthermore, there are often instances where patients must sit through pain because normal tests and finding veins for blood tests. 

Certain devices and software allow doctors and nurses to project an AR scanner on the patient’s skin to find veins. This makes the process easier, quicker and less painful. 

• Augmented Surgery 

Surgeons can now access critical patient information in real-time and overlay the patient’s anatomy onto the body for precise surgical procedures. This enables a comprehensive visualisation of each body part, guaranteeing that adjacent organs are not negatively affected during surgery. This advancement contributes to a higher success rate in surgeries and reduces the recovery time for patients. 

• Augmented Training and Practice 

Augmented Reality (AR) apps offer medical students a realistic medical scenarios, prompting them to respond actively instead of relying on conventional training. This approach not only assesses the students’ knowledge and problem-solving abilities but also evaluates how well they manage stress and emotions during patient treatment. 

Military 

Augmented Reality (AR) is significantly impacting the military sector by enhancing the various aspects of operations. This technology is created a substantial change in the military industry. 

In the military, AR plays an important role in preparing soldiers for battle, assisting in bomb disposal and handling explosive elements, and improving proficiency in using various weapons. AR adds informative labels to the real-world environment, enhancing navigation even in low-light conditions.  

Entertainment 

The entertainment industry is undergoing significant enhancements with the introduction of Augmented Reality (AR), influencing various subdomains such as music, live events, and movies. 

• AR in the Music Industry 

AR-powered earbuds and equipment add an augmented layer to real audio, providing users with a personalised listening experience tailored to negate background sound and create a true noise-cancelling experience. 

• AR in Movies 

AR benefits directors by seamlessly integrating unrealistic or non-existent elements, like dinosaurs, facilitating performances for dancers with physical disabilities, and incorporating various visual effects on the screen. 

• AR in Media 

Augmented reality elevates the impact of multimedia, games, videos, and presentations for a more engaging experience. It encourages interactive content sharing, resulting in better outcomes. 

Real Estate 

Augmented Reality (AR) has significantly improved the success rate and growth in the real estate industry by overcoming existing limitations and providing real estate experts with powerful tools. Some of the challenges addressed by AR include: 

• Unappealing Text Descriptions 

Traditional text descriptions of apartments often fail to engage potential buyers effectively. AR offers a more interactive experience, allowing users to visualise properties in 3D, resulting in higher engagement and conversion rates. 

• Longer Decision-Making Time 

2D photos may cause confusion for users trying to decide on whether the property meets their requirements. AR addresses this by presenting a 3D image that users can interact with, moving objects and assessing how the space meets their preferences.  

In summary, AR in real estate improves engagement, accelerates decision-making, and provides a more immersive experience for potential buyers. 

Manufacturing

The integration of custom mobile app development has played a vital role in improving the manufacturing industry and encouraging  growth, introducing efficiency and improving customer experiences. 

• Less Time Required for Manufacturing Processes 

In manufacturing and supply chain management, locating specific objects or equipment can be time-consuming. AR addresses this challenge by adding virtual labels to objects, providing a 3D view of each element. This streamlines processes and significantly reduces the time required for task completion. 

• Higher Customer Experience 

AR-powered parcel service applications enable customers to track their shipments in real-time, from the warehouse to their doorstep. Additionally, these apps provide valuable product information, including size, weight, and price. 

Retail 

AR technology revolutionises the retail industry by enabling customers to virtually try products before making a purchase, creating immersive shopping experiences both in-store and online. Several retailers have embraced AR to enhance customer engagement: 

• Sephora 

Sephora’s app empowers customers to visualise how makeup products will look on them before buying, utilising AR to simulate the application of different cosmetic products. 

• Wayfair 

Wayfair allows customers to see how furniture will look in their homes. This feature aids in better decision-making for furniture purchases. 

• Bentley 

Bentley offers an AR visualiser app, providing users with the ability to explore the interior and exterior of their new SUV model.  

Education 

Augmented Reality (AR) has helped change the Education and Training industry, addressing various challenges faced by students and teachers: 

• Difficulty in Conceptual Understanding 

AR addresses conceptual understanding by providing a 3D model of objects, showcasing the complete concept in a 360-degree view. This experience helps bring a deeper knowledge and real-life implications. 

• Short-Term Memory Retention 

AR presents textual information visually, allowing users to virtually interact with content. This aids in memory processing, resulting in enhanced performance. 

• Lack of Knowledge 

AR offers a practical dimension to theoretical knowledge, enabling students and graduates to test their understanding in a virtual environment.  

• Issues with Student Performance Evaluation 

AR simplifies the task of educators by introducing virtual environments, allowing observation of their responses. This approach provides a better evaluation based on students’ performance rather than memorisation.

How To Integrate Augmented Reality into Your Business 

While augmented reality apps is a great addition in your business, there are certain hurdles that businesses need to address before they can start implementing AR into their processes. 

Market Research 

Investing efforts in AR market analysis and competitive analysis is essential to understand what type of AR integration is best suited to your business and observe how this technology can help you establish a distinctive image in the marketplace. 

Evaluate Challenges 

While getting familiar with how others are making profits from AR, it is crucial to understand the limitations of your traditional business processes. That implies exploring the different segments of your business and bringing the individual teams on board to get a clear picture of what challenges they are facing. 

Why Every Organisation Should Consider an AR Strategy 

Once you have identified whether it is feasible for your organisation to incorporate AR into your strategy, you can move forward and enjoy the benefits it brings. These include: 

Enhanced Customer Experience 

Augmented reality applications can help improve customer experiences by offering a dynamic and interactive environment that boosts engagement and loyalty.  

Increased Efficiency and Productivity 

Industries like manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare can benefit from augmented reality apps by enhancing efficiency and productivity. Integrating digital information with actual equipment allows employees to work faster, with fewer errors, ultimately improving overall quality. 

Competitive Advantage 

AR provides a competitive edge by giving you an edge over your competition. Creating unique experiences with AR helps attract and retain customers, setting businesses apart in a crowded market. 

Cost Savings 

AR can lead to cost reductions by enabling remote operations, minimising the need for travel and on-site training. It also enhances supply chain efficiency by offering real-time visibility and tracking of inventory and shipments. 

Innovation 

AR serves as innovation on by providing a platform for experimentation and creativity, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and exploration.